Mahrez powers Algeria to hold Austria 2-2

Algeria produced another spirited comeback to stay alive in the race for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, fighting back from behind twice to hold Austria 2-2 in a pulsating Group J encounter. Veteran forward Riyad Mahrez struck the crucial equaliser to rescue a valuable point for the North African side.

Austria made the brighter start and looked in control for much of the opening half, taking an early lead through a well-worked attacking move. However, Algeria responded just before the break when Rafik Belgali found the net in the 44th minute to restore parity and send the teams into halftime level at 1-1.

The Europeans regained the advantage shortly after the restart, piling pressure on Algeria and threatening to strengthen their grip on a knockout place. But Vladimir Petkovic's men once again refused to surrender.

Their persistence paid off in the 74th minute. Houssem Aouar burst down the left flank, outpaced defender Stefan Posch, and delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area. Mahrez timed his run to perfection before calmly slotting home, scoring his 39th international goal to level the contest at 2-2.

Boosted by the equaliser, Algeria seized momentum and pushed forward in search of a winner. Mahrez, Aouar and the Algerian frontline repeatedly tested Austria's defence with quick combinations and sustained pressure, while Austria remained dangerous on the counterattack in an end-to-end contest.

As the match entered its closing stages, Algeria continued to chase all three points, knowing victory would significantly strengthen their hopes of reaching the Round of 32.

At the time of writing, Algeria have recovered twice through goals from Rafik Belgali and Riyad Mahrez to hold Austria 2-2, keeping their World Cup knockout dream alive.